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CAPR60-1 Cadet Program Management - 26 OCT 2021

3.4. ATTENDANCE & RETENTION

3.4.1. Expectations of Cadets. Cadets participate in CAP to the extent that they are interested and able, but active participation is a prerequisite for promotion.

3.4.1.1. Attendance & Promotion Eligibility. Active participation is a promotion requirement because direct, in-person involvement in the Cadet Program is the most effective way for cadets to learn and grow as leaders. “Active participation” is not precisely defined because the reason for, frequency of, and duration of absences varies greatly. Commanders should consider cadets “active” if they participated in four meetings or activities during the previous eight weeks.

3.4.1.2. Attendance & Leadership Opportunities. A cadet’s ability (or inability) to attend meetings on a regular basis may affect his or her opportunity to serve in a leadership position. Members of the cadet staff need to be dependable, regular participants. Unit commanders exercise their judgment on these matters on a case-by-case basis.

3.4.1.3. Occasional Absences. If a cadet knows he or she will be absent, the cadet is expected to notify local leaders through the chain of command.

3.4.1.4. Extended Absences. If the cadet will be absent for multiple weeks, the cadet is expected to file a leave of absence with the unit commander, in writing, indicating the expected date of return. During a leave of absence, participation in special activities beyond the weekly meeting is at the discretion of the unit commander. 

3.4.1.5. College Students. Cadets who are college students living away from their home unit may, with permission of the unit commander, assist their squadron or another CAP unit with special projects via online activity. Cadets who make such contributions, even without attending weekly meetings during the academic year, satisfy the active participation promotion requirement.